Billionaire brands award of ‘New Owner of the Year’ prize to influencer ‘insult’

Billionaire Criticizes Award to Influencer Griffin Johnson

Mike Repole, owner of Breeders’ Cup Classic third-place finisher Fierceness, criticized the decision to award the "New Owner of the Year" prize to Griffin Johnson, calling it a conflict of interest. Johnson is an influencer hired to promote horse racing in the United States.

Griffin Johnson's Role in Horse Racing Promotion

Griffin Johnson is a content creator, social media influencer, actor, and singer with over 14 million followers. He was introduced to horse racing through America’s Best Racing’s “A Stake in Stardom” campaign, where he received a share in Kentucky Derby hopeful Sandman.

Johnson’s behind-the-scenes videos of Sandman’s campaign reached more than 200 million people and amassed over 35 million views. He later became part-owner of another horse that won a Grade 2 race.

Acknowledgment and Impact

On Thursday, Johnson was honored as OwnerView 2025 New Owner of the Year. Project manager Gary Falter commended Johnson, saying:

“Griffin Johnson has had an incredible impact on horse racing through his social media platforms, helping to create new fans, which will ultimately result in new owners.”

Griffin Johnson's Response

“This has been the best year of my life. Thank you to everyone that dedicates themselves daily to keeping these horses healthy & running for all of us to enjoy. This game has already given me more than I could have ever imagined & I am forever grateful.”

Author’s summary: The award highlights the growing influence of social media figures in horse racing, though some traditional owners question the appropriateness of such recognitions.

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The Mirror The Mirror — 2025-11-07

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